JICA and DOH Strengthen Primary Health Care Systems for Hypertension and Diabetes

On April 13,2026, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Health (DOH) sign the Record of Discussions on the framework to implement the “Project for Strengthening the Implementation of the Updated Philippine Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Interventions for Primary Health Care Protocol” (PhilPEN), a technical cooperation project aimed to improve prevention and management of common long-term illnesses in Filipinos, such as hypertension and diabetes.

The signatures were exchanged between JICA Philippines Chief Representative BABA Takashi and Secretary Teodoro Herbosa of the Department of Health, lead implementing agency in the Philippines.

DOH has recently updated PhilPEN to transform it into a more comprehensive, system-integrated and evidence-based non-communicable disease (NCD) intervention, better aligned with the Universal Health Care (UHC) and current population health needs. Under the project, the updated PhilPEN will be cascaded nationwide, and Batangas Province will serve as the intensive intervention site of the project. The facilitation of accreditation of health facilities in the municipal level to the PhilHealth YAKAP Program will provide means to better track and support Filipino patients over time.

Today, many Filipinos are affected by NCDs, which account for nearly two-thirds of all deaths in the country. These include heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, conditions that often require regular check-ups and long-term care. However, access to primary healthcare services remains a challenge for many Filipino families. Data from local communities show gaps in knowledge and relevant training on health management on NCDs. Community-based health workers often manage multiple responsibilities, including other social sector programs, with limited resources.

JICA Chief Representative BABA highlights the importance of this project in “improving access to timely, integrated, and quality care for Non-Communicable Diseases which is essential to achieving Universal Health Care and protecting the health and well-being of Filipino families”.

The project which will be implemented from 2026 to 2030 also complements existing programs such as the DOH’s “Healthy Hearts Program”, which promotes regular blood pressure checks, proper treatment, and better follow-up care for patients with cardiovascular diseases. Directly benefitting frontline health workers, local health offices, and partner institutions involved in the delivery of primary health care services in Batangas and the CaLaBaRZon Region, with the broader population expected to receive improved services for the prevention, monitoring, and management of hypertension and diabetes.

Marking the 70^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Philippines this year, JICA supports the health sector in the Philippines through a comprehensive partnership that strengthens health systems, advances universal health coverage and improves service delivery. The cooperation spans policy, institutional and human resource capacity development, health facility and service improvement, contributing to a resilient, equitable and people centered health systems.

This initiative will continue to provide technical support to strengthen primary health care systems, improve access to quality essential health services, specifically for Non-Communicable Diseases, and reduce health and financial risks for the most vulnerable sectors of the population echoing JICA’s global work for achieving Universal Health Care (UHC).

By expanding primary health care at the community level, PhilPEN will help Filipinos achieve better health outcomes and support a broader goal of building a health system that works for everyone, especially those who need it most.